Skip to main content

Lentil Taco Filling

A tasty alternative to meat or fish tacos that provides a filling rich in flavor.
Bowl of seasoned lentils with vegetables garnished with cilantro.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Makes: 2 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
1 clove garlic, minced or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup dried lentils, rinsed
4 ½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon oregano (optional)
1 ¼ cups low-sodium broth (any flavor)
½ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.

  3. In a large skillet, heat oil on medium. Add the onion, bell pepper and garlic. Sauté until tender, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the lentils, chili powder, cumin and oregano, if desired. Cook and stir for 1 minute.
  5. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover the skillet and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 to 30 minutes for brown lentils. Add water if necessary to keep the lentils just covered with liquid.
  6. Uncover the skillet and cook until the mixture thickens and most of the water is gone, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add salt, if desired.
  7. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Use for tacos, wraps or salad.
  • Different types of lentils have different cooking times. Check the package or bulk bin for how long to cook the type you buy.

Comments

This recipe is a perfect intro recipe to lentils for someone just starting to use lentils. This taco filling gives off such a great flavor. This was a great vegetarian taco filling option. This recipe also pairs well with the Food Hero Pico De Gallo salsa recipe!

A great vegetarian dish to have for several nights of varied uses.

A great way to use lentils and super low cost dinner!  Was easy too, and i got it cooking first and then had the perfect amout of time to prep the rest of the meal - we made tostadas.  I put a layer of lentils down on the tostada first and then topped with beans and cheese and veggie, and the kids ate every bite...

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Corn Pancakes
Round, golden corn pancakes displayed on a skillet and plate.

Corn Pancakes

A delicious savory alternative to traditional pancakes.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
6 6-inch pancakes
Pasta Salad
Macaroni noodles with ham, vegetables and dressing.

Pasta Salad

Enjoy this simple Spring and Summer side dish.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Hummus (no tahini)
Bowl of hummus with a lemon slice served with carrot sticks, tomatoes and broccoli.

Hummus (no tahini)

Simple yet delicious homemade hummus dip, made without tahini.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Carrot Ginger Salad
Photo of Carrot Ginger Salad

Carrot Ginger Salad

This flavorful, sweet and savory side dish is great for make-ahead meals!
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Creole Seasoning
Creole seasoning mix shown with crawfish, lemon, potato and corn.

Creole Seasoning

Add savory flavor to your favorite vegetables, grains, meats, fish, seafood, poultry, soups and stews!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
about ½ cup
Hearty Chicken and Homemade Noodle Soup
Bowl of chicken noodle soup served with crackers.

Hearty Chicken and Homemade Noodle Soup

Make your own noodles for this comforting soup.
Prepare:
30 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
10 cups